vindicated
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /vɪnˈdɪkeɪtɪd/
KK: /vɪnˈdɪkeɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Cleared of blame or suspicion; proven right or justified after being accused or doubted.
Example
After the investigation, she felt vindicated when the evidence proved her innocence.
Conversation
I was so relieved when I found out the truth about the situation.
Really? I thought you might be worried about what people would think.
Not at all! I felt completely vindicated once I had the facts.
That's great! It's nice to know you weren't in the wrong.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
justified
exonerated
absolved
Antonyms
accused
blamed
condemned
verb
Definition
To clear someone of blame or suspicion; to show that someone is right or justified in their actions or beliefs.
Example
After the investigation, she felt vindicated when the evidence proved her innocence.
Tense Forms
Past: vindicated
Past Participle: vindicated
Conversation
I finally got the results back from the test.
Oh really? How did it go?
I was so worried, but I was vindicated when I saw I passed!
Root Explanation
Vindicated → It is formed from "vindicare" (meaning to claim, defend, or avenge) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating a state or condition). The word "vindicated" means to have been claimed or defended, often in the context of proving someone right or justifying an action.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who has been 'defended' or 'claimed' as right — that's what it means to be vindicated.
Visually Confused Words
unvindicated
indicate
unindicated
revindicate
vendicate
unindicted
undictated
reindicate